Preserved within the M'Zab valley, a 10th century traditional human habitat was built by the Ibadites surroundinig five of their fortified cities known as ksour. The M'Zab architecture-simple, functional and harmonious with its environment-honored the concept of the family structure while also emphasizing on a design inclusive of community living. Today's urban planners look to the M'Zab architecture for inspiration. --WHMNet paraphrase from the description at WHC Site, where additional information is available.